The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2026, conducted by Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, has successfully concluded across multiple sessions in February 2026. With the examination phase complete, lakhs of engineering graduates across the country are now eagerly awaiting the release of the GATE 2026 response sheet and the provisional answer key.
These two documents play a crucial role in the post-exam process, allowing candidates to evaluate their performance, estimate scores, and raise objections if necessary. Here is a complete professional update for your news page covering the latest developments, process details, and next steps.
What Is the GATE 2026 Response Sheet?
The GATE response sheet 2026 is an official document that displays the answers submitted by candidates during the examination. It does not indicate whether answers are correct or incorrect; rather, it serves as a transparent record of the candidate’s attempted responses.
The response sheet is made available through the GOAPS (GATE Online Application Processing System) login on the official GATE 2026 portal.
Why the Response Sheet Is Important
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It helps candidates verify the options they selected in the exam.
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It allows cross-checking with the provisional answer key.
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It provides documented proof in case a candidate wants to challenge an answer.
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It enables early estimation of raw scores before official results are declared.
The response sheet release is typically followed by the publication of the provisional answer key within a short period.
GATE 2026 Answer Key: Provisional and Final
The GATE 2026 provisional answer key contains the officially suggested correct answers for all question papers. Once released, candidates can:
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Compare their response sheet with the answer key.
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Calculate probable marks using the official marking scheme.
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Identify discrepancies and file objections within the allowed timeframe.
After reviewing all submitted challenges, the exam authority releases the final answer key, which forms the basis of official score calculation.
Expected Timeline for GATE 2026 Post-Exam Process
Based on the standard GATE schedule, the following timeline is expected:
| Event | Expected Timeframe |
|---|---|
| GATE 2026 Exam Conducted | February 2026 |
| Response Sheet Release | Last week of February 2026 |
| Provisional Answer Key | Fourth week of February 2026 |
| Objection Window | 2–3 days after answer key release |
| Final Answer Key | Early March 2026 |
| Result Announcement | March 2026 |
| Scorecard Download | Late March onwards |
Candidates are advised to monitor the official GATE portal regularly for updates and notifications.
How to Download GATE 2026 Response Sheet
Once released, candidates can access their response sheet by following these steps:
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Visit the official GATE 2026 website.
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Click on the GOAPS login link.
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Enter your Enrollment ID/Email ID and Password.
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Navigate to the “Response Sheet” section.
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Download and save the PDF for future reference.
It is recommended to keep both soft and printed copies for score calculation and objection purposes.
How to Download GATE 2026 Answer Key
To access the provisional answer key:
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Visit the official GATE portal.
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Click on the “Answer Key” link.
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Select your respective paper code.
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Download the PDF file.
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Compare it with your response sheet to estimate your score.
GATE 2026 Marking Scheme
Understanding the marking scheme is essential for accurate score estimation.
For Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
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1-mark questions: +1 for correct answer, –1/3 for incorrect answer.
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2-mark questions: +2 for correct answer, –2/3 for incorrect answer.
For Multiple Select Questions (MSQs)
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No negative marking.
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All correct options must be selected to earn marks.
For Numerical Answer Type (NAT) Questions
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No negative marking.
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Exact numerical value must be entered.
Using this marking system, candidates can calculate their estimated raw marks.
Objection Process: How to Challenge the Answer Key
After the provisional answer key is released, the exam authority opens an objection window for a limited duration.
Steps to Raise an Objection:
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Log in to the GOAPS portal.
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Select the question you wish to challenge.
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Provide a valid explanation with supporting documents.
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Pay the prescribed fee per question.
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Submit within the deadline.
The exam committee reviews all objections carefully. If any answer is found incorrect, the final answer key is revised accordingly.
GATE 2026 Result and Scorecard
The official GATE 2026 results are expected to be announced in March 2026. On result day, candidates can:
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View their normalized score.
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Check All India Rank (AIR).
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See qualifying marks for their category.
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Download their official scorecard.
The GATE scorecard remains valid for three years, making it usable for postgraduate admissions and PSU recruitment during that period.
Importance of GATE 2026 Scores
GATE is one of India’s most competitive and prestigious engineering examinations. A strong performance in GATE 2026 can open doors to:
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M.Tech and ME programs in IITs, NITs, IIITs, and other premier institutes.
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PhD admissions in reputed universities.
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Recruitment in Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs).
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Research fellowships and financial assistance programs.
Because of its wide applicability, the response sheet and answer key phase becomes extremely important for candidates aiming for top ranks.
Key Points for Candidates
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Regularly check the official GATE portal for updates.
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Download your response sheet immediately once released.
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Carefully compare answers before filing objections.
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Submit challenges within the given deadline.
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Keep login credentials safe until the admission and recruitment cycle concludes.
Final Update
The release of the GATE 2026 response sheet and provisional answer key marks a critical milestone in the examination process. With the exam concluded successfully, candidates now have the opportunity to analyze their performance and prepare strategically for the next phase — results and admissions.
As anticipation builds toward the official result declaration, aspirants are advised to stay updated, evaluate their scores carefully, and plan their next academic or professional move accordingly.
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